Elegant benefit planned for Ramona H.E.A.R.T. Mural project
By S. Elaine Lyttleton
Based on the sellout format of their fundraiser in February, Ramona H.E.A.R.T. Mural Project Board members will hold their second major benefit at a private venue in what they describe as an elegant setting at a local boutique winery.
The community is invited to attend the wine and food pairing on Saturday, June 23, from 2 to 6 p.m. at Altipiano Vineyard & Winery, 20365 Camino Del Aguila, off Highland Valley Road just before Bandy Canyon Road in Escondido.
While not technically located in the Ramona Valley A.V.A., owners Peter and Denise Clarke are members of the Ramona Valley Vineyard Association and enthusiastic supporters of the Ramona community.
The H.E.A.R.T. Mural pairing will be held in the exclusive Great Room and private patios surrounding the Clarkes’ beautiful Tuscan Style villa, venues not open to the public but only made available by special arrangement for small groups such as this H.E.A.R.T. Mural benefit.
The lineup of wines: Chardonnay, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, and Cabernet Franc will be paired with an appropriate food pairing “small bite” from Trezette’s Catering. The tasty morsels will include Spicy Shrimp Chutney Cups, Bite Size Kebabs, Southwestern Mini Corn Cakes, and Hand-dipped Chocolate Strawberries — the last with the Cabernet Sauvignon, of course.
The ambiance will be enhanced by Ramona pianist Anne Stadler playing the concert grand piano in the Great Room.
The price of this mural benefit is $45 per person, with the venue limiting attendance to 130 people. Reservation deadline is June 15, with advance payment. Credit cards are accepted.
An invitation with registration form can be emailed to prospective attendees by contacting Lyttleton@sv-mail.com or calling 760-787-1102.
Attendees will watch the summer sun as it sinks behind the Altipiano vineyards as they enjoy the culinary fare.
Anyone wishing to donate items or services to the silent auction baskets may contact Stephanie Norvell at 760-789-9995 by June 15.
The Ramona H.E.A.R.T. Mural Project’s mission is “To encourage economic vitality by increasing tourism, promoting community pride, and celebrating our rich cultural heritage through an outstanding outdoor visual arts program.”
The first mural of the 30 planned over the next five years is at the corner of 10th and Main streets. There are four murals being planned concurrently for potential installation before the end of 2012.